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Description
Lupinus Albifrons Var. Albifrons, commonly known as the white-flowered lupine, is a beautiful and hardy plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to California and can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal bluffs, chaparral, and open woodlands. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has attractive, palmate leaves that are gray-green in color. The flowers are white and are arranged in a tall, spiky inflorescence that can be up to 8 inches long. The plant blooms from April to June.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lupinus |
Appearance
The white-flowered lupine has attractive, palmate leaves that are gray-green in color. The leaves are divided into 5 to 9 leaflets, each up to 2 inches long. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a tall, spiky inflorescence that can be up to 8 inches long. The flowers are white and are arranged in a whorled pattern around the stem. The plant blooms from April to June.
Care Guide
The white-flowered lupine is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of your lupine:- Water: The lupine prefers moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry periods.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: The lupine prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: The lupine prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 through 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The white-flowered lupine is relatively disease-free, but it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
The white-flowered lupine is native to California and can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal bluffs, chaparral, and open woodlands. The plant is adapted to Mediterranean climates and is drought-tolerant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the white-flowered lupine be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Is the white-flowered lupine toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant can be toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: How long does the white-flowered lupine live?
A: The plant can live up to 5 years in the right conditions.
Q: Can the white-flowered lupine be propagated from seeds?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds in the fall or early spring in well-drained soil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the white-flowered lupine:- Lupinus Albifrons Var. Gracilis- Lupinus Albifrons Var. Kincaidii- Lupinus Bicolor- Lupinus Chamissonis
References
– “Lupinus Albifrons.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2021. – “Lupinus Albifrons.” Calflora. California Native Plant Society, n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2021. – “White-Flowered Lupine (Lupinus Albifrons).” University of California Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa County. University of California, n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2021.
